Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal Without Insurance
Understanding the Cost of Wisdom Teeth Removal Without Insurance
The removal of wisdom teeth is a common dental procedure, but the costs involved can be a significant barrier for many people, especially those without dental insurance. Here’s a comprehensive look at the costs and options available for wisdom teeth removal, with and without insurance.
What is the Cost of Having Wisdom Teeth Removed?
The cost of wisdom teeth removal can vary significantly based on the complexity of the extraction:
- Simple Removal: $75 to $250 per tooth.
- Impacted Wisdom Tooth Extraction: $200 to $600 per tooth.
Wisdom tooth removal cost comparative Insurance / Non Insurance
| Procedure | Cost with Insurance | Cost without Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Extraction | 50% covered | $120 – $800 |
| Soft Tissue Impaction | 50% covered | $225 – $850 |
| Partial Bony Impaction | 50% covered | $300 – $950 |
| Full Bony Impaction | 50% covered | $350 – $1,100 |
| Dental Cleaning | Typically covered 100% | $75 – $200 |
| X-rays | Typically covered 100% | $100 – $200 |
| Dental Exam | Typically covered 100% | $50 – $100 |
How Much Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost With General Anesthesia?
When general anesthesia is involved, the cost increases:
- General Anesthesia: $600 to $1100 for the procedure.
Total Cost for Removing All Four Wisdom Teeth
If all four wisdom teeth need to be removed, the total cost can range from $600 to $1100, depending on the complexity and anesthesia used.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The good news is that most dental insurance plans cover wisdom teeth extraction. On average, with insurance, the cost is:
- Average Cost Per Tooth: $641
- Cost for All Four Teeth: $2,564
How to Get a Tooth Removed Without Insurance
If you need to have your wisdom teeth removed but don’t have dental insurance, there are several options to help reduce the cost:
1. Go to a Local Dental School
- Discounted Care: Many dental schools offer discounted dental care performed by students under the supervision of licensed professionals.
2. Set Up a Payment Plan
- Payment Plans: Most dental offices offer payment plans, allowing you to pay off the cost of your treatment over time.
3. Apply to the Dental Lifeline Network
- Free or Discounted Care: This network provides dental care to low-income and disabled individuals through volunteer dental professionals.
4. See If You Qualify for Medicaid
- Medicaid Coverage: Depending on your state, Medicaid may cover some or all of the cost of dental procedures, including wisdom teeth removal.
Out-of-Pocket Costs for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Without dental insurance, you will be responsible for covering the entire cost, which includes:
Initial Exam and X-Rays
- Exam: Approximately $100.
- X-Rays: $100 to $250.
Anesthesia
- Sedatives: $50 to $200 per hour.
- General Anesthesia: Initial cost around $250, with additional costs of $200 per 15-minute increment.
Pain Medication
- Over-the-Counter: Alternating between Tylenol and ibuprofen.
- Prescription Medication: Costs can vary, with generic oxycodone around $60.
Follow-Up Visits
- Additional Costs: If not included in the initial surgery price, follow-up visits can add to the total cost.
Health Risks of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth can cause several issues if not removed, including:
- Crowding and Crooked Teeth
- Damage to Adjacent Teeth
- Cysts Formation
- Inflammation and Cavities
Conclusion
While the cost of wisdom teeth removal can be high, there are various ways to manage and reduce these expenses, even without insurance. Exploring options like dental schools, payment plans, and assistance programs can help make this necessary procedure more affordable. Ensuring you are well-informed about the costs and options can ease the financial burden and ensure you get the care you need.